Dozens of families line up for food giveaway in White House, Tenn.

What This Story Is About

A food giveaway in White House shows what hardships families are facing right now.

Why It Matters

The church says it’s seen an increase in people needing help this year.

What Happens Next

The church plans another food giveaway sometime in October.

For Context

The giveaway at White House First United Methodist Church was done through a partnership with Second Harvest.

Catch Up

200 mayors nationwide, including Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell, are urging Congress to preserve federal food assistance, as local need rises.

WHITE HOUSE, Tenn. (WSMV) – Two hundred mayors across the country are calling on Congress to take action to preserve federal food assistance.

Now, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell is joining that growing list — pointing to local food giveaways as proof of how critical that support is right now.

Thursday morning, dozens of families lined up at White House First United Methodist Church to fill their bags with essentials like potatoes, onions and canned goods. The event was made possible through a partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee.

Church leaders say the giveaways are about supporting neighbors and they’ve seen a larger turn out this year with events like this, making the need even more urgent.

Connie Lowery, head of community outreach at the church, said they’ve seen an influx in attendees.

“Every month or every quarter when we have this, the numbers are increasing.”

She’s especially noticed that people are showing up to stretch food for numerous children.

“Some of the records that I’ve kept today say that there are six kids in one family. So I would be horrified if I had to feed five kids right now in this economy. And that’s why they’re here. They want to feed their families,” said Lowery.

If you missed the July giveaway, the church says the next one partnered with Second Harvest is expected to take place sometime in October.